If you or your company are one of those refusing to move ahead to more modern Windows computing with two-digit versions, you’ll soon need to make a choice. Windows 7 and 8/8.1 are losing support for Microsoft Edge and Webview2 Runtime in January 2023.

Note: if you’re still not using Windows 11, you’re far from alone. Recent stats showed that less than three percent of machines had upgraded to Windows 11.

Windows Blog Releases Update on Support

Like the old saying goes, “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.” However, tech companies don’t seem to subscribe to that same theory. They continue to release new versions of operating software for our devices, but not everyone wants to update.

Software that relies on the OS also updates, then stops supporting the older versions. There isn’t always a choice, as sometimes it comes down to security. The biggest reason to update isn’t really the cool new toys found in the software – it’s the security updates.

With Windows 11 being released over a year ago, the Microsoft Edge browser and Webview2 Runtime will be ending support for Windows 7 Extended Security Update and Windows 8/8.1 on January 10, 2023. Google Chrome will also stop support for Windows 7 and Windows 8/8.1.

New versions of Microsoft Edge and Webview2 Runtime will be released on January 12, and while they will continue to work on Windows 7 and 8, these versions will not receive security updates or new features.

The new release of Edge will be the last to support Windows Server 2008 R2, Windows Server 2012, and Windows Server 2012 R2. Internet Explorer 11 will continue its support.

Both the Evergreen and Fixed versions of WebView2 Runtime will be losing support. Attempts to install future versions of Evergreen will install the version being released next month, 109. Fixed versions will begin to fail on Windows 7 and Windows 8/8.1.

The Push for Windows 10 and 11

In its blog post, Windows is pushing for users to update to Windows 10 and 11, noting that new versions of Microsoft Edge and Webview2 Runtime are included. Note that Windows 10, though, is supposed to end support in October 2025. However, your machine may not support Windows 11, which is known to have limited older system support.

Windows is also encouraging developers to end their support for Windows 7 and Windows 8/8.1. They recognize that it won’t be easy, but “ending support for these operating systems will help keep end users safe from potential security threats and risks as both operating systems go out of support on January 10, 2023.”

If you’re still unsure about upgrading to Windows 10 or 11, read on to learn how to continue to use Windows 7 safely without upgrading.

Image credit: Unsplash

Laura Tucker

Laura has spent nearly 20 years writing news, reviews, and op-eds, with more than 10 of those years as an editor as well. She has exclusively used Apple products for the past three decades. In addition to writing and editing at MTE, she also runs the site’s sponsored review program.